By KRIS HILL

Black Diamond Councilwoman Rebecca Olness planned to announce Tuesday night she would challenge long time Mayor Howard Botts in the election this fall.

Olness was planning to announce her intentions at a campaign kick off at Mama Passrelli’s Dinner House with her message focused on change, both for the City Council and the city itself as it prepares to grow in the coming years as Kirkland-based developer YarrowBay plans to build hundreds of homes in the city of 4,100, a population that is expected to double in the next decade.

“I have the greatest respect for Mayor Botts and I can’t begin to compare to his history in Black Diamond, but I do believe it’s time for a change,” Olness said. “I know this is not what some of you want to hear, but without growth, Black Diamond cannot survive. But, we need to be smart about growth.”

Olness explained that her experience in education, professional organizations and time as a councilwoman have prepared her “to lead the city as we approach a period of great growth and development.”

“With careful guidance by the City Council and staff, we can make thoughtful and intelligent decisions that will provide practical and appropriate guidelines for smart development,” she said.

Botts has served as mayor for Black Diamond for more than 25 years.

Olness, who serves in position four, is in her first term on the council which ends this year.

Geoff Bowie, position two, is also up for re-election.

Black Diamond council members serve in at-large positions while the mayor is elected by the people.